Bhubaneswar, Mar 11: Sanitary workers engaged by the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) initiated a cease-work protest at the Rajmahal overbridge in Bhubaneswar today, impacting sanitation operations across 53 wards of the Capital City.
The sanitary workers voiced their grievances, chiefly calling for a salary increase to Rs 15,000 and advocating against waste segregation. They demanded the appointment of dedicated individuals for the segregation of dry and wet waste, urging the BMC to address this issue.
Expressing frustration, the protesting workers accused both the state government and BMC authorities of ignoring their repeated pleas for a salary hike. They lamented the apparent discrepancy, citing the government's recent salary increments for various employee groups while neglecting their own demands.
Furthermore, they highlighted the lack of essential protective gear despite working in outdoor conditions exposed to the elements. The absence of gloves, soap, and other necessary amenities was also underscored, despite their vital role in maintaining cleanliness in the Smart City.
The agitators are determined to continue with their cease-work protest till their demands are met.
